As the final resting place of all marine sediments, the seabed is a pivotal site for researching the distant past. We know the Inter-island Archipelago looked drastically different some 10,000–20,000 years ago; when the sea level was much lower, these separate spaces were one single, intact landmass. On a shorter timescale, changes in microscopic ostracod populations shed light on human activities like pollution. 

Inspired by scientific studies of the seabed and Prof. Yasuhara’s research on ostracods, Ironshroom Pottery Studio’s ceramic sculpture depicts a microscopic, underwater—ahem, under-seabed—world, where the archipelago’s histories lie buried. The work comprises four ceramic cylinders, echoing the sediment cores scientists extract from the seabed. Each represents one of the Festival’s ports, positioned on a base map that brings together the archipelago’s present-day geography and ancient past. 

Ostracods invisible to the naked eye are enlarged and engraved onto the cylinders, bringing these tiny creatures into focus. They dwarf marine predators, turning the ecological chain upside down. 

Blending scientific data with imagination, the installation invites contemplation of the deep history and hidden creatures that connect the archipelago.